Helmut Baxter has been named to the Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration.

Baxter replaces Mary Ann Manzel, who resigned from the post.

Baxter was appointed to the board by the Cherokee County Republican Party. The Republican and Democratic parties in Cherokee County each nominate two members to the elections board. The elections board itself nominates a chair.

Cherokee County Republican Party Chair Bob Rugg said the Republican Party adopted some changes last year allowing a committee to review resumes submitted by people interested in serving.

Baxter, Rugg said, has been involved with the Cherokee County Republican Party for more than 20 years and has held leadership positions including first vice chairman and other offices.

Baxter is currently first vice chairman for the 11th District Republican Party.

Other members of the elections board are chairperson Randy Gravley, Republican member Cindy Castello, and Democratic members Donald Sams and Frankie Shepherd.

Gravley said he thinks Baxter will be a “great addition” to the board.

“He’s been involved with the political process for many years,” Gravley said.

The elections board is responsible for certifying elections and overseeing the election process.

Congratulations to the CC Board of Elections for doing such a great job in running all the elections we've had the past year (and prior to that, as well). I feel the Cherokee County voting process is as smooth as such a process can be and that's 100% due to the hard-work, efficiency, professionalism, and dedication of the Board of Elections members and staff, as well as everyone working at the precinct level. From last year's summer primary through last week's mercifully-last special election, these people continue to run efficient, effective elections that never generate any sort of the voting problems we've all read about occurring elsewhere.

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